Herndon, VA Curfew Laws: Park Curfew (2026)

Fairfax County Park Authority operates over 420 parks covering more than 23,000 acres, and each park has posted operating hours set by Park Authority regulations under County Code Chapter 8. Standard park hours are generally dawn to dusk, with many parks posted as closing at sunset or 30 minutes after sunset. Lake Accotink Park, Burke Lake Park, and other larger facilities may have extended hours for specific activities (fishing, camping) but require permits for after-hours use. Recreation centers and indoor facilities have staffed hours posted at each location. Unauthorized presence in a park after hours is a Class 4 misdemeanor (punishable by a fine up to $250) under Chapter 8. Exceptions include: permitted special events or photography; authorized park staff; and individuals passing through on designated trails (Washington and Old Dominion Trail, Cross County Trail) where posted as 24-hour use. Commercial photography, large gatherings, alcohol service, and amplified sound all require separate permits regardless of hour. Virginia state parks within Fairfax County (Mason Neck State Park) are subject to Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation rules which may differ slightly. National Park Service units (George Washington Memorial Parkway, Great Falls Park) follow federal rules, generally sunrise to sunset unless otherwise posted. Park police (Fairfax County Park Authority Police) enforce park hours in coordination with the Fairfax County Police Department.